2027 Elections: Bashir Ahmad Calls on INEC to Adjust Dates for Ramadan

Bashir Ahmad, a former presidential adviser, has encouraged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reevaluate the general election dates for 2027, pointing out that they fall during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

The election schedule was already made public by INEC, which set the dates for the governorship and state assembly elections for March 6, 2027, and the presidential and national assembly elections for February 20, 2027.

After the dates were revealed, Ahmad responded on his 𝕏 Twitter, calling his stance a “respectful observation”.

Following the announcement of February 20th and March 6th, 2027, as the dates for the upcoming elections for the President and National Assembly, and the Governorship and State Assembly, respectively, he stated, “This is a respectful observation.”

He claims that the suggested dates coincide with the holy month of Ramadan.

“The suggested dates coincide with the holy month of Ramadan, when many Muslims spend a lot of time in prayer, fasting, and introspection,” he continued.

Ahmad contended that conducting elections during Ramadan might have an impact on Muslim voters’ turnout.

He stated, “Scheduling such a crucial national exercise during Ramadan may present challenges for a large segment of the population if the intention is to encourage full and inclusive participation in the electoral process.”

In order to concentrate on their religious duties, many Muslims opt to cut back on their participation in demanding worldly activities at this time.

The former aide emphasized that when organizing national activities, Nigeria’s religious diversity must be taken into account.

It could be important to reevaluate the date in light of the sizeable Muslim community in this nation in order to guarantee greater participation and ease for all residents. “I sincerely hope that this observation will be interpreted in a way that promotes inclusivity and national unity,” he said.